Judge Offers to Recuse Himself

MEYIWA TRIAL: MOKGOATLHENG APOLOGISES TO SA

- Molefe Seeletsa

Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng has apologised for his controversial racial remarks and says he is prepared to recuse himself from the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial.

His apology follows widespread public backlash, including criticism from parliament.

The controversy erupted after Mokgoatlheng criticised advocate Charles Mnisi, who had excused himself from yesterday's session to take part in the Comrades Marathon in KwaZulu-Natal.

The judge's comments included a strong condemnation of black lawyers, during which he said: "This is what happens in a South Africa run by blacks. I can tell you now, even if you call Uncle Tom, I don't think a white advocate will ever have the gall to ask me that."

His remarks prompted calls for the Judicial Service Commission to investigate his conduct.

During proceedings at the High Court in Pretoria yesterday, Mokgoatlheng apologised for his remarks.

"I have been 26 years on the bench, I have never ever behaved the way I did," the judge said.